University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Pitt Football Announces 50th Anniversary Plans for Historic 1976 Team
6/1/2026 2:58:00 PM | Football
Panthers to honor the national champion 1976 squad with season-long tributes and an in-game celebration against North Carolina on Oct. 10
PITTSBURGH—Pitt Football will honor the 50th anniversary of its 1976 National Championship team throughout the 2026 season, highlighted by a major in-game celebration when the Panthers host North Carolina on Saturday, Oct. 10.
The season-long celebration will pay tribute to one of the most iconic teams in program history with special fan experiences, commemorative giveaways, exclusive merchandise, historical storytelling and in-game recognitions tied to the Panthers' national championship legacy.
Throughout the 2026 season, the 1976 National Championship celebration will be featured in and around Acrisure Stadium. Planned elements include:
· 1976-themed souvenir cups, commemorative in-stadium branding and dedicated anniversary signage throughout Acrisure Stadium and Art Rooney Avenue
· Exclusive 50th anniversary merchandise available for purchase
· Special in-game video features and storytelling moments honoring the 1976 team at every home game
· Interactive and historical exhibits on Art Rooney Avenue celebrating the legacy of the 1976 team
· Limited-edition 1976-themed buttons distributed at each home game while supplies last
The centerpiece of the yearlong celebration will take place during Pitt's Oct. 10 matchup against North Carolina. That day's planned programming will include:
· Special halftime recognition honoring members of the 1976 National Championship team
· Tribute video celebrating the legacy and impact of the historic season
· Dedicated halftime performance from the Pitt Marching Band themed around the 1976 championship season
· 1976-themed rally towel giveaway for fans in attendance
· Commemorative Tony Dorsett bobblehead giveaway for fans entering Acrisure Stadium early
· Special Heisman Foundation recognition commemorating the 50th anniversary of Tony Dorsett winning the Heisman Trophy
Fans can also enter to win the ultimate 1976 National Championship 50th Anniversary Celebration Experience, which includes two tickets to Pitt's Oct. 10 matchup against North Carolina, a VIP pregame on-field experience, and a commemorative 1976-themed prize pack featuring exclusive limited-edition merchandise and the commemorative Tony Dorsett bobblehead. Entries must be submitted by July 31.
Additional details surrounding the 50th anniversary celebration, including special guests and other themed programming, will be announced at a later date.
Season tickets for the 2026 Pitt Football season are on sale now and can be purchased by clicking here, while single-game pricing is available here. For more information on group tickets, fans can visit PittsburghPanthers.com/groups or contact the Panthers Ticket Office at 412-648-7488.
